Investing in high-quality shoes from a brand like Crockett & Jones or Santoni means that, given the proper care, your new footwear will last for years. In this guide we’ll take you through the key steps for maintaining leather, suede, nubuck and exotic leathers, so that your shoes get the care they deserve, and you get the best from your investment.
How to care for leather shoes
Leather is prized for its durability, structure and natural ability to improve with age. To care for it properly, you’ll need: soft cloth, leather cleaner, conditioner, cream/wax polish, cedar shoe trees.
Step 1 – Clean
Wipe away dust and dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth. For built-up grime, use a specialist leather cleaner.
Step 2 – Condition
Apply a leather conditioner every few weeks to prevent dryness and cracking. Work it in with a clean cloth, then leave to absorb.
Step 3 – Polish
Use a cream polish that matches the shoe colour to revive depth and shine. For extra gloss and protection, finish with a thin layer of wax polish.
Step 4 – Protect
Apply a water-repellent spray before wearing in damp weather.
Step 5 – Store
Insert cedar shoe trees to help retain shape, absorb moisture and maintain freshness.
How to care for suede shoes
Suede’s velvety nap brings a softness that’s not found in leather, but it needs extra care as it’s far more delicate. What you’ll need: suede brush, suede eraser, protector spray, tissue or paper.
Step 1 – Brush
Regularly brush the nap in one direction with a suede brush to lift fibres and remove dirt.
Step 2 – Remove Marks
Treat scuffs and light stains with a suede eraser or a crepe rubber block.
Step 3 – Protect
Spray with a suede protector to guard against water and stains. Reapply every few weeks.
Step 4 – Dry Correctly
If suede gets wet, stuff with paper to hold shape and let air-dry naturally. Avoid radiators or direct heat.
How to care for nubuck shoes
Nubuck is similar to suede but made from the outer side of the hide, giving it a finer nap and greater durability. What you’ll need: nubuck brush, nubuck cleaner, waterproof spray.
Step 1 – Brush Gently
Use a soft nubuck brush to restore texture and remove dirt.
Step 2 – Clean
Apply a nubuck-specific cleaner to lift marks without damaging the surface.
Step 3 – Protect
Finish with a waterproof spray designed for nubuck to keep shoes resistant to moisture.
Seasonal care tips
Certain weather conditions can lead to damaging circumstances for your footwear. Bear these tips in mind and you’ll know how to mitigate that.
-
Winter: Salt stains are damaging – wipe them off immediately and recondition leather.
-
Summer: Store shoes in a cool, shaded place to prevent drying and fading.
Shoe Care Checklist
-
Clean after every few wears
-
Condition monthly (for leather and exotic skins).
-
Protect with sprays before first wear and reapply regularly.
-
Always use shoe trees when storing.
Luxury shoes don’t just enhance an outfit – they demonstrate your commitment to clothing that’s created with true craftsmanship and care. By investing a few minutes each week in proper maintenance, you extend their lifespan and preserve their beauty. The result is footwear that remains as stylish and distinguished as the day you bought it.
Official shoe care products for Santoni and Crockett & Jones
In our Shoe Care section, we stock official products to care for your Crockett & Jones and Santoni shoes. Browse the full range here.
